As the countdown to Christmas begins, finding the perfect gifts can feel a bit daunting, especially if you’re shopping at the last minute. Fortunately, Bob’s Garden Center has you covered with a variety of thoughtful, ready-to-go gifts, ideal for anyone on your list. From convenient gift cards to beautifully packaged grab-and-go items and festive hostess gifts, we make last-minute holiday shopping easy, fast, and fun!

1. Gift Cards: The Perfect Present for Every Gardener and Home Decor Enthusiast

Gift cards are a fantastic option when you’re unsure what to choose, allowing your loved ones to pick out exactly what they want from Bob’s Garden Center. Our gift cards come in flexible amounts, making them perfect for anyone on your list—whether they’re an avid gardener, a plant parent, or someone looking to spruce up their home with seasonal decor.

• Ideal for Garden Lovers: Give the gift of choice, from gardening tools and supplies to fresh plants and seasonal decor.
• Easy to Wrap: Bob’s gift cards come in festive packaging, ready for a quick wrap or to slip into a Christmas card.

2. Grab-and-Go Gifts: Festive and Ready to Delight

For quick, thoughtful presents, our grab-and-go gifts offer a range of unique options that are beautifully packaged and ready for giving. Here are some of our popular items that make the perfect last-minute gifts:

• Potted Holiday Plants: Miniature poinsettias, Christmas cacti, and tabletop evergreens bring holiday cheer and are easy to care for. These plants are great for anyone who enjoys a bit of greenery in their space.
• Handcrafted Ornaments and Decorations: From classic to quirky, our holiday ornaments and decor pieces are perfect for adding a personalized touch to someone’s tree or holiday setup.
• Winter Candles and Scented Soaps: These make lovely gifts for friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Our holiday-scented candles, including pine, cinnamon, and peppermint, add warmth to any home.

3. Hostess Gifts: Easy, Festive, and Always Appreciated

If you’re attending holiday gatherings, showing up with a thoughtful hostess gift is a wonderful way to show your appreciation. Here are some quick yet elegant hostess gifts available at Bob’s Garden Center:

• Holiday-Themed Planters: Our holiday-themed planters are ready-made arrangements featuring poinsettias, evergreens, or other seasonal plants, beautifully decorated and ready to go. They’re the perfect centerpiece for any holiday table!
• Gourmet Goodies and Treats: Small baskets filled with local jams, honey, or gourmet snacks are always a hit. We offer ready-made gift baskets that are both tasty and festive.
• Decorative Wreaths and Garland: Festive wreaths or small lengths of garland make a charming and lasting gift that can be displayed throughout the season. Choose from natural or artificial options to suit the recipient’s decor.

4. Stocking Stuffers: Small Surprises for Everyone

For those looking to fill stockings, we have a selection of small gifts that pack a lot of charm. These items are perfect for kids, neighbors, and Secret Santa exchanges:

• Mini Succulents and Air Plants: Easy to care for and fun to display, these small plants are perfect stocking stuffers for plant lovers.
• Gardening Gloves and Hand Tools: These practical items make great gifts for anyone who loves spending time in the garden.
• Holiday-Themed Mugs and Hot Cocoa Kits: Perfect for cozying up during winter, our holiday mugs paired with hot cocoa kits make a thoughtful and easy gift.

Find All Your Last-Minute Holiday Gifts at Bob’s Garden Center

Whether you’re in need of a quick gift card, a beautifully packaged grab-and-go present, or a thoughtful hostess gift, Bob’s Garden Center in Egg Harbor Township has everything you need to finish your holiday shopping with ease. Stop by our convenient South Jersey location to browse our selection of last-minute gifts, and let us help make your holiday shopping experience festive and stress-free. From our garden family to yours, we wish you a joyful holid

When it comes to holiday decor, few plants are as iconic as the poinsettia. With its vibrant red and green foliage, the poinsettia has become a symbol of Christmas cheer. At Bob’s Garden Center, we’re proud to offer homegrown poinsettias cultivated for quality and beauty, perfect for brightening your home this holiday season. Here, we share everything you need to know about the history and care of poinsettias, so you can keep yours healthy and thriving throughout the holidays.

The History of Poinsettias: How They Became the Christmas Plant

The poinsettia, or Euphorbia pulcherrima, originated in southern Mexico and Central America, where it was known as “Cuetlaxochitl” by the Aztecs, who prized the plant for its vibrant red color and used it in dye-making and medicinal practices. The plant’s association with Christmas traces back to 16th-century Mexico, with the legend of a young girl named Pepita. Unable to afford a gift for Jesus on Christmas Eve, she gathered weeds by the roadside. When she brought them to the church, they blossomed into beautiful red flowers—the poinsettia. In the 1820s, Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, encountered the plant and brought it back to the United States, where it was eventually named in his honor. Over time, it grew in popularity and became synonymous with Christmas, thanks to its festive red and green colors that perfectly complement holiday decor. Today, the poinsettia is celebrated each December 12th on National Poinsettia Day, a tribute to Poinsett’s contribution and the plant’s enduring role in holiday tradition.

Caring for Your Poinsettias: Tips from Bob’s Garden Center

Once you bring home a poinsettia, a few simple steps can keep it looking fresh and beautiful throughout the holiday season:

1. 1. Light Requirements Poinsettias thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a window where they can receive natural light, but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

1. 1. Temperature Poinsettias prefer a steady temperature between 65-70°F during the day and about 60°F at night. Keep them away from drafts, heaters, or cold windows, as sudden temperature changes can cause leaves to drop.

1. 1. Watering Proper watering is key to a healthy poinsettia. Check the soil daily and water when the top layer feels dry to the touch. When you water, make sure to remove any excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot.

1. 1. Humidity Poinsettias prefer moderate humidity levels, so avoid placing them near heating vents. If your home is particularly dry, consider placing a small humidifier nearby or misting the plant lightly every few days.

1. 1. Pruning and Reblooming After the holiday season, poinsettias can be pruned back to about six inches to encourage new growth. With proper care, you can keep them year-round and even rebloom the following winter by adjusting light exposure in the fall.

Get Ready for the Holidays: Home Decor and Gift Ideas from Bob’s

Visit Bob’s Garden Center for Beautiful, Homegrown Poinsettias

At South Jersey’s Bob’s Garden Center, our homegrown poinsettias are nurtured with care to ensure the healthiest plants for your holiday decor. Available in classic reds as well as pink, white, and variegated varieties, they add warmth and cheer to any space. Plus, our knowledgeable staff is here to offer expert advice on poinsettia care, from picking the right plant to keeping it thriving through the season. Stop by Bob’s Garden Center in Egg Harbor Township to bring home a stunning poinsettia and add a touch of holiday history and color to your celebrations. From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful and festive season with the timeless beauty of poinsettias!

There’s nothing quite like the sight and scent of a fresh Christmas tree to set the holiday mood! At Bob’s Garden Center, we’re proud to offer top-quality balsam firs, known for their soft needles, wonderful fragrance, and excellent needle retention. If you’re considering a real tree this year, here are some tips on keeping it looking fresh, properly anchored, and safely lit throughout the season.

1. Choose a Fresh Tree from Bob’s Garden Center

The first step to a long-lasting Christmas tree is choosing one that’s fresh. A good balsam fir should have vibrant green needles and a healthy aroma. When you’re at Bob’s Garden Center, we’ll help you select the perfect tree and can show you how to check for freshness by gently running your hand along the branches – if only a few needles fall off, you’ve got a fresh tree! Get Ready for the Holidays: Home Decor and Gift Ideas from Bob’s

2. Get the Watering Right: Keep Your Tree Hydrated

A fresh tree is a thirsty tree, especially in the first few days indoors! Proper watering is essential to keep it looking lush and to reduce the risk of drying out, which can lead to a greater risk of fire.

• Initial Watering: After purchasing your tree, make a fresh cut about an inch from the bottom before placing it in water. This opens the pores, allowing the tree to absorb water more effectively.
• Daily Watering: Keep the water level above the cut at all times, especially in the first week. A standard recommendation is that a tree can absorb up to a gallon of water per day, so check the water level daily and refill as needed.
• Avoid Additives: Plain water is best. Additives like sugar or bleach aren’t necessary and may even harm the tree by altering the water absorption rate.

3. Anchor Your Tree for Stability and Safety

Once your tree is well-hydrated, make sure it’s securely anchored to prevent tipping. Here are some methods to stabilize your tree:

• Use a Sturdy Tree Stand: Invest in a high-quality stand that fits the size of your tree, with a wide base for stability and ample room for water. Bob’s Garden Center offers a range of sturdy stands designed for various tree sizes.
• Additional Anchoring for Large Trees: If your tree is tall or if there are children or pets in the house, consider anchoring it to the wall. Use fishing wire or twine tied to a wall hook, securing it to the top of the tree to prevent any accidental tipping.

4. Set Up Lighting with Care

Twinkling lights make a Christmas tree feel magical, but it’s important to follow some best practices to keep your tree safe and beautiful.

• Choose LED Lights: LED lights produce less heat than traditional incandescent bulbs, which reduces the risk of drying out the tree or causing a fire hazard.
• Check Your Lights: Inspect all strings of lights for frayed wires, broken bulbs, or other signs of wear before placing them on the tree. If you find any issues, replace the lights immediately.
• Turn Off at Night: Remember to turn off your lights when you go to bed or leave the house. Using a timer can make this easier and ensures your lights go off at the same time every evening.

5. Avoid Placing Your Tree Near Heat Sources

To keep your tree fresh longer, avoid placing it near heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or heating vents. Heat sources can dry out your tree faster and increase the risk of fire. Instead, place your tree in a cool area with indirect sunlight to help it retain moisture and stay green throughout the season.

Visit Bob’s Garden Center for Your Perfect Balsam Fir

At Bob’s Garden Center, we take pride in offering the finest balsam firs and providing expert advice to help you care for your fresh Christmas tree. Stop by our Egg Harbor Township store to find a beautiful selection of fresh-cut trees, along with everything you need for a safe and festive holiday setup. With the right care, your balsam fir will stay fresh and fragrant, filling your home with holiday cheer all season long.

The holiday season is right around the corner, and with shopping season a full week shorter this year, now’s the time to start planning! At Bob’s Garden Center, we’re excited to help you create a festive, welcoming atmosphere at home and find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. From holiday decorations to unique gifts, we have everything you need to get into the holiday spirit.

Start with Holiday Home Decor

There’s no better way to embrace the season than by adding festive touches throughout your home. With less time to shop, getting a head start on decorating ensures you’ll have time to enjoy every moment. Here are a few ways to bring holiday cheer into your home:

• Deck the Halls with Greenery: Fresh garlands and wreaths are perfect for creating that classic holiday look and filling your home with the fresh scent of evergreens. Use garlands to adorn your staircase, mantle, or entryway for a warm and festive feel.
• Add Seasonal Accents: From Christmas trees to poinsettias and holiday-themed planters, Bob’s Garden Center offers a wide variety of plants and floral arrangements that make it easy to infuse holiday charm into any room.
• Light Up the Night: Create a cozy ambiance with twinkling lights and lanterns. Place them around your garden, porch, or windows for a soft, festive glow that will delight family and guests alike.

Find Unique Gifts for Everyone on Your List

The shortened shopping season means it’s essential to get a jump on holiday gifts. At Bob’s Garden Center, you’ll find unique, thoughtful gifts that are perfect for anyone who loves home decor, gardening, or just the spirit of the season.

• Gift Plants for Year-Round Cheer: Live plants make wonderful gifts, offering long-lasting beauty and joy. Consider holiday favorites like poinsettias, Christmas cacti, or miniature pines that can be enjoyed for months.
• Ornaments & Holiday Decor: Personalized ornaments or themed decorations make for thoughtful, memorable gifts. Choose from classic, rustic, or modern styles to find the perfect fit for friends and family.
• Garden Tools & Kits: For the garden enthusiasts on your list, we carry an array of high-quality tools, indoor garden kits, and DIY terrarium sets. These gifts are perfect for those looking to bring a touch of nature indoors over the winter months.

Plan Ahead for Seasonal Workshops and Events

At Bob’s Garden Center, we host a variety of holiday workshops and events to help you get creative with your decorations and gifts. This season, join us for wreath-making classes, DIY holiday planters, and festive floral arrangement workshops. Not only will you go home with a beautiful piece, but you’ll also make memories and learn something new! Click here for our holiday workshops and events. 

Stop by Bob’s Garden Center for All Your Holiday Needs

The countdown to the holidays has officially begun, and with a shorter shopping season, there’s no time to waste! Visit us at Bob’s Garden Center in South Jersey to find everything you need for holiday decor, thoughtful gifts, and more. Let us help make your season merry and bright with the finest holiday products and a festive shopping experience. From holiday decorating to unique gifts, we’re here to make this holiday season easier, more beautiful, and full of joy.

As summer has come  to an end, many gardeners assume it’s time to wrap up their growing season. However, with a little planning and the right tools, you can extend your garden’s productivity well into the cooler months. In Southern New Jersey, where temperatures remain moderate through early fall, there are plenty of opportunities to keep harvesting long after summer crops fade. At Bob’s Garden Center, we’re here to guide you through the process of maximizing your fall garden.

1. Choose the Right Crops for Fall Planting

Not all plants thrive in cooler temperatures, but many cool-season crops actually prefer the crisp air and shorter days of fall. Here are a few vegetables and herbs to consider: – Leafy greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and arugula are cool-weather champions that can tolerate light frost and continue growing through the fall. – Root vegetables: Carrots, beets, and radishes are perfect for fall planting. They develop sweeter flavors when exposed to cooler temperatures. – Broccoli and cauliflower: These brassicas thrive in the cooler days of autumn, producing bountiful heads well into the season. – Herbs: Some herbs, like parsley, cilantro, and chives, flourish in fall. They can even survive mild winters with the right protection. Bob’s Garden Center offers a wide selection of seeds and starter plants specifically for fall gardening, so be sure to pick up your supplies early.

2. Use Season Extension Tools: Row Covers, Cold Frames, and Cloches

Season extension tools can help you protect your crops from early frost and extend the growing season by weeks or even months. – Row covers:  Lightweight row covers are ideal for protecting crops from frost while allowing light and water to penetrate. These covers help maintain warmer temperatures under the fabric, giving your plants a head start. – Cold frames: A cold frame acts like a mini greenhouse, trapping heat and protecting plants from harsh winds. You can create your own using old windows or plexiglass, or find pre-made cold frames at Bob’s Garden Center. – Cloches: Bell-shaped cloches are placed over individual plants to keep them warm. They’re especially useful for protecting tender seedlings during the first frosts of the season. With these tools, you can keep your fall crops growing strong, even as the temperature dips.

3. Maximize Sunlight and Microclimates

As the days get shorter, sunlight becomes a precious resource for your garden. Fall gardening success often depends on finding ways to maximize the light and warmth available to your plants. – Location matters: Place your fall garden in the sunniest spot available. Areas with southern exposure will capture the most sunlight during the cooler months. – Use reflective surfaces: Positioning white or light-colored objects, like walls or garden décor, near your plants can reflect sunlight and warmth back onto them. – Create microclimates: Plant near heat-retaining structures like stone walls or fences to create warmer microclimates that can extend your growing season by a few crucial degrees.

4. Mulch for Temperature Control

Mulch isn’t just for winter protection; it’s also a valuable tool in fall gardening. Applying a layer of organic mulch around your plants helps regulate soil temperature, keeping it warmer on chilly nights. It also retains moisture and prevents weeds from competing with your crops for nutrients. – When to mulch: Once your seedlings are established, spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your plants. Use materials like straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips, all of which you can find at Bob’s Garden Center.

5. Plan for Successions and Staggered Planting

One of the best ways to extend your growing season is to practice succession planting. By staggering your planting dates, you can ensure a continuous harvest of fresh produce throughout the fall. – Succession planting: Every few weeks, plant a new round of fast-growing crops like radishes, spinach, or lettuce. This way, as one crop is harvested, another is just coming into maturity. – Consider interplanting: Plant fast-growing crops between slower-growing ones. For example, plant radishes between rows of broccoli. The radishes will mature and be harvested before the broccoli needs the space.

6. Protect Your Plants from Frost

Frost is the biggest challenge to extending your growing season, but with the right preparation, you can keep your garden going even after the first frost hits. – Frost blankets: Keep a supply of frost blankets or row covers on hand to throw over your plants when frosty nights are forecasted. These covers can provide a few extra degrees of protection, keeping your plants alive and growing. – Harvest before a hard frost: While some vegetables can withstand light frost, a hard freeze can damage even the hardiest crops. Keep an eye on the weather and harvest tender crops before a hard frost hits.   Visit Bob’s Garden Center for Your Fall Garden Needs At Bob’s Garden Center, we have everything you need to extend your growing season into the fall. From cool-weather seeds and starter plants to season extension tools like row covers and cold frames, we’ve got you covered. Stop by today, and let our knowledgeable staff help you plan the perfect fall garden. By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown produce well into autumn, making the most of South  Jersey’s extended growing season. Happy fall gardening!

Fall is a beautiful time in the garden, with cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage offering a peaceful end to the growing season. For gardeners looking to enjoy a colorful autumn landscape without a lot of upkeep, fall perennials are the perfect solution. These hardy plants come back year after year with minimal care, making them a must-have for any low-maintenance garden. At Bob’s Garden Center, we’ve curated a list of the best fall perennials to help you create a stunning, worry-free garden right here in Southern New Jersey.

1. Sedum (Stonecrop)

Sedum is a standout perennial for fall, offering clusters of pink, red, or white flowers that bloom well into the cooler months. Its thick, succulent-like leaves make it drought-tolerant, meaning it requires very little watering once established. – Why it’s low-maintenance: Sedum thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and it’s highly resistant to pests and diseases. Simply plant it, give it occasional water, and let it do its thing. – Varieties to consider: ‘Autumn Joy’ is a classic fall bloomer that’s perfect for borders, while groundcover varieties like ‘Dragon’s Blood’ create colorful, sprawling carpets.

2. Asters

Asters are a fall favorite, known for their daisy-like flowers that bloom in shades of purple, pink, and white. They attract pollinators like butterflies, making them a lovely addition to any fall garden. – Why it’s low-maintenance:  Asters are tough plants that thrive in a variety of soils and can handle full sun to partial shade. They require very little watering and will come back each year with minimal effort. – Varieties to consider: New England asters like ‘Purple Dome’ are particularly hardy and offer vibrant color late into the fall season.

3. Echinacea (Coneflower)

While often associated with summer, Echinacea can also bring beauty to your fall garden. Its striking cone-shaped flowers bloom from summer through fall, providing long-lasting color that requires little care. – Why it’s low-maintenance: Echinacea is drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soil conditions, making it an easy-going addition to any garden. It also attracts bees and butterflies, which adds to its appeal. – Varieties to consider: Try ‘Magnus’ for classic pink blooms or ‘White Swan’ for a striking white alternative.

4. Heuchera (Coral Bells)

Heuchera is a versatile perennial known for its colorful foliage that lasts throughout the year. In the fall, its leaves take on deeper hues, adding rich tones to your garden even as other plants begin to fade. – Why it’s low-maintenance: Heuchera requires very little pruning or watering and does well in partial shade, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardeners. Plus, its evergreen nature means it adds interest to your garden year-round. – Varieties to consider: Look for varieties like ‘Autumn Bride,’ which has soft green foliage and delicate white flowers, or ‘Caramel’ with its warm amber leaves.

5. Helenium (Sneezeweed)

Helenium produces bold, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red, making it a perfect choice for adding vibrant fall color to your garden. – Why it’s low-maintenance: Helenium is hardy and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. It’s resistant to pests and disease, and once established, it requires minimal watering. – Varieties to consider: ‘Mardi Gras’ brings a mix of fiery colors, while ‘Moerheim Beauty’ offers deep, rich red blooms.

6. Coreopsis

Coreopsis is a long-blooming perennial that can extend its flowering season into the fall with cheerful yellow, pink, or red flowers. It’s a wonderful option for gardeners looking for bright, happy colors with little effort. – Why it’s low-maintenance: Coreopsis is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil. It requires little more than deadheading to keep it looking tidy, and it’s incredibly tough once established. – Varieties to consider: ‘Moonbeam’ is a reliable, pale yellow bloomer, while ‘Red Satin’ adds a bold splash of color.

7. Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)

Rudbeckia is a staple in many gardens due to its cheery yellow petals and dark center. It begins blooming in late summer but continues well into the fall, making it a great choice for sustained autumn color. – Why it’s low-maintenance: Once established, Rudbeckia is highly drought-resistant and requires little care beyond occasional deadheading. It can thrive in various soil types and is resistant to most pests. – Varieties to consider: ‘Goldsturm’ is a classic and reliable variety for fall blooms, while ‘Indian Summer’ offers larger flowers for a dramatic effect.

8. Hellebores

Though typically thought of as a late winter or early spring bloomer, hellebores can add evergreen interest to your fall garden. Their leathery leaves and early bloom cycle make them a standout plant during the colder months. – Why it’s low-maintenance: Hellebores thrive in partial shade and are highly resistant to deer and pests. Once planted, they require very little water or attention. – Varieties to consider: ‘Winter Jewels’ or ‘Ivory Prince’ offer long-lasting flowers in beautiful shades of white, pink, and purple. Visit Bob’s Garden Center for Your Low-Maintenance Fall Perennials At Bob’s Garden Center, we offer a wide selection of perennials that are perfect for bringing your fall garden to life with minimal upkeep. Whether you’re looking for drought-tolerant blooms or hardy foliage, our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the best plants for your needs. Visit us in-store or browse our online images to find the perfect fall perennials for your garden! By incorporating these low-maintenance perennials into your garden, you can enjoy stunning fall color year after year—without the hassle. Happy gardening!